How to celebrate in style!

11:22 10 December 2009

For many, winning the lottery is one of the best reasons to celebrate. New research from the National Lottery reveals that one in four British adults (23 million) is convinced theyÂ’re going to bank a seven figure cheque sometime in the future. And even if your numbers haven't yet come up, chances are you're still one of the three quarters of people that know exactly what they would do with the money if they did scoop the jackpot.

Half of us confess to dreamily window shopping for the time when we really do have the cash to splash, according to a new survey. Researchers quizzed 1,136 Brits on their aspirations to become a millionaire.

For those of us looking to splash the cash, a house is our top priority, with 70% dreaming of a new bigger and better home. Booking a holiday comes next on our wish lists (60%) and just less than half of us new car (49%).

We’re also a generous bunch, as the majority (89%) would give a portion of the winnings to family and would be inclined to share our £1million with our friends (52%) almost as much as we would a charity (58%).

For some, that fantasy could become a reality thanks to the new and improved National Lottery EuroMillions as every ticket now includes a Millionaire Raffle – guaranteeing to create a UK millionaire every week in the Friday draw.

Whether it's celebrating your big win, a special occasion, or just a great way to bring in the New Year, opening a bottle of champers is the way to do it. But how do you choose the perfect bottle of fizz?

First up, the taste. Believe it or not, there are huge differences in taste and quality, even though champagne all comes from the same neighbourhood.

The secret of good champagne, even the cheapest variety in the supermarket? It's all in the bubble formation, as internationally renowned sommelier Richard Weiss explains in this vintage video to selecting the perfect champers.

And finally, for lottery winners, budding Formula One champions or uber-extravagant partygoers this Christmas, there is also a technique to master for getting the best champagne spray - itÂ’s all down to control.

Find out how to pick the best bubbly and how to create the ultimate champers fountain by watching Weiss demonstrate just how itÂ’s done. Bottoms up!

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